In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the health insurance proposals for 2025, focusing on the financial implications and changes to various plans. The total projected cost for health insurance in 2025 is estimated at $110.9 million, a decrease from $112.4 million in 2024. The county will cover $89.2 million, while employees and retirees will contribute $21.7 million.

The meeting highlighted significant changes in health insurance plans, particularly the self-insured Anthem plan, which will see a 3.6% decrease in rates for active employees and pre-65 retirees. Conversely, the fully insured Kaiser plan will increase by 8.9% for active employees and pre-65 retirees, raising concerns among commissioners about the financial burden on employees. Aetna's Medicare Advantage plans are set to increase by 16.4% for the basic plan and 19.4% for the enhanced plan, prompting calls for a new request for proposals (RFP) next year due to dissatisfaction with the current rates.

Commissioners expressed concerns about the rising costs and the impact on employees, particularly those on the Kaiser plan, who may face significant increases in their contributions. The discussion also revealed frustrations regarding Aetna's refusal to provide necessary data for competitive bidding, which some officials believe could lead to higher costs for retirees. The county attorney's office was called upon to review contractual obligations to ensure access to critical data in future negotiations.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the need for improved benefits, such as an increase in the hearing aid benefit for retirees, allowing for a one-time payment of up to $4,000 within a three-year period. Open enrollment for the new plans is set to begin on October 14, with preparations for coverage starting in January 2025.

Overall, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges in managing health insurance costs while striving to provide adequate coverage for county employees and retirees.